UPDATE: President Trump has just announced the withdrawal of the National Guard from Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland, a decision he made public on Truth Social. This significant move raises immediate concerns as Trump warns that federal troops may return if crime rates “begin to soar again.”
The announcement comes amid ongoing legal battles regarding the presence of the National Guard in these cities. Trump stated, “We are removing the National Guard from Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland, despite the fact that CRIME has been greatly reduced by having these great Patriots in those cities.” He emphasized that federal intervention was crucial to maintaining order, declaring, “Portland, Los Angeles, and Chicago were GONE if it weren’t for the Federal Government stepping in.”
This decision follows a recent ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court, which upheld a federal ruling preventing the deployment of National Guard troops in Illinois while legal challenges are underway. In addition, a federal judge in California blocked the administration’s ability to deploy the California National Guard in Los Angeles, ordering its return to Governor Gavin Newsom. Meanwhile, an appeals court has allowed for the deployment of the Oregon National Guard in Portland, but this is still subject to ongoing litigation.
The implications of this withdrawal are profound, as Trump indicated that the decision is not final. He suggested a potential return of National Guard troops could occur “in a much different and stronger form” if crime escalates. This statement underscores a critical and urgent public safety concern for residents in these major cities.
Authorities and local leaders are likely to respond to this announcement in the coming hours as the situation develops. The decision has sparked a heated debate over public safety versus federal intervention, with many citizens expressing anxiety about the implications of reduced security presence.
As local governments brace for the potential impact of this withdrawal, all eyes are on Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland as they navigate the challenges ahead. Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to unfold.